Hypnotherapists in Pittsfield, MA

Photo of Jeffrey Rossman, Psychologist in Pittsfield, MA
Jeffrey Rossman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittsfield, MA 01201
I also utilize experiential techniques that catalyze rapid transformation and personal growth, such as hypnotherapy, biofeedback, EMDR, CBT for Insomnia, and mind-body movement, breathing, and meditative practices.
In 35 years working as a psychologist, I’ve been fortunate to help many individuals, couples and families through challenging moments in their lives. I’ve come to appreciate the myriad ways my clients draw on their strengths to face adversity and grow through it. Through our creative collaboration, they understand themselves more deeply and take positive steps toward achieving their goals. In the context of a trusting, collaborative relationship, I am active and interactive, asking thought-provoking questions, listening carefully, reflecting, making suggestions and providing support.
I also utilize experiential techniques that catalyze rapid transformation and personal growth, such as hypnotherapy, biofeedback, EMDR, CBT for Insomnia, and mind-body movement, breathing, and meditative practices.
In 35 years working as a psychologist, I’ve been fortunate to help many individuals, couples and families through challenging moments in their lives. I’ve come to appreciate the myriad ways my clients draw on their strengths to face adversity and grow through it. Through our creative collaboration, they understand themselves more deeply and take positive steps toward achieving their goals. In the context of a trusting, collaborative relationship, I am active and interactive, asking thought-provoking questions, listening carefully, reflecting, making suggestions and providing support.
(413) 299-2750 View (413) 299-2750
Photo of Scott Murray, Psychologist in Pittsfield, MA
Scott Murray
Psychologist, PhD, FACHE
Verified Verified
Pittsfield, MA 01201
I believe that a good therapist is a collaborator who works with you as part of a team. In this way, I will not only offer insights and help identify possibly unhealthy patterns, but I also will provide direction, support, and assistance in developing the skills you need to overcome your challenges. My approach to therapy is cognitive behavioral and solution-focused. My intent is to always provide a safe, compassionate, and caring space in which to better understand the challenges you face and to help you develop or enhance the skills you need to meet your goals.
I believe that a good therapist is a collaborator who works with you as part of a team. In this way, I will not only offer insights and help identify possibly unhealthy patterns, but I also will provide direction, support, and assistance in developing the skills you need to overcome your challenges. My approach to therapy is cognitive behavioral and solution-focused. My intent is to always provide a safe, compassionate, and caring space in which to better understand the challenges you face and to help you develop or enhance the skills you need to meet your goals.
(413) 344-2755 View (413) 344-2755
Photo of Valerie A Sheehan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsfield, MA
Valerie A Sheehan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Pittsfield, MA 01201  (Online Only)
Are you struggling just to get through the day? Do you look to others for approval? Do you feel uncomfortable in your own skin? Do you lack the courage to be your "authentic self"? Have you been acting "as if" you're okay, but really feel like you're "not good enough", "defective", and "unlovable"? Do you feel hopeless? I'd like to help. I am a compassionate and interactive therapist who will provide a safe, and non-judgemental environment where you can safely explore your feelings and develop curiosity about your life. Let me help you rediscover your strengths, your authentic self and your unique truth.
Are you struggling just to get through the day? Do you look to others for approval? Do you feel uncomfortable in your own skin? Do you lack the courage to be your "authentic self"? Have you been acting "as if" you're okay, but really feel like you're "not good enough", "defective", and "unlovable"? Do you feel hopeless? I'd like to help. I am a compassionate and interactive therapist who will provide a safe, and non-judgemental environment where you can safely explore your feelings and develop curiosity about your life. Let me help you rediscover your strengths, your authentic self and your unique truth.
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Photo of Marc Aronoff, Counselor in Pittsfield, MA
Marc Aronoff
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pittsfield, MA 01201
I believe everyone has the capacity to change and improve the quality of their life, no matter what has happened. My style of counseling combines working with insight and cognitive therapy, which explores past events in light of how the choices we now make affect well - being. I also utilize an awareness approach, whereby, getting in touch and releasing the feelings in the body helps to create a new sense of relief and empowerment.
I believe everyone has the capacity to change and improve the quality of their life, no matter what has happened. My style of counseling combines working with insight and cognitive therapy, which explores past events in light of how the choices we now make affect well - being. I also utilize an awareness approach, whereby, getting in touch and releasing the feelings in the body helps to create a new sense of relief and empowerment.
(413) 314-3539 View (413) 314-3539
Photo of Jim Sharp, Psychologist in Pittsfield, MA
Jim Sharp
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Not accepting new clients
I have a background in hypnotherapy as well as EMDR.
I offer a pragmatic, heart-centered approach when working with clients. I believe that a good therapeutic outcome is more than just the reduction of symptoms; it must include the cultivation of positive states as well. In other words, feeling less bad is not the same as feeling good.
I have a background in hypnotherapy as well as EMDR.
I offer a pragmatic, heart-centered approach when working with clients. I believe that a good therapeutic outcome is more than just the reduction of symptoms; it must include the cultivation of positive states as well. In other words, feeling less bad is not the same as feeling good.
(413) 992-6704 View (413) 992-6704
Photo of Laurie J Swiatek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsfield, MA
Laurie J Swiatek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Not accepting new clients
Since 2001 I have been providing psychotherapy to Individuals, Families and Teens in Berkshire County. I feel very fortunate to be involved in this work that I love, that of the Behavioral and Emotional Healing Arts. There are many treatment modalities available to practicing therapists like myself, but the single most important element in successful psychotherapy is the quality of the therapist-client relationship.
Since 2001 I have been providing psychotherapy to Individuals, Families and Teens in Berkshire County. I feel very fortunate to be involved in this work that I love, that of the Behavioral and Emotional Healing Arts. There are many treatment modalities available to practicing therapists like myself, but the single most important element in successful psychotherapy is the quality of the therapist-client relationship.
(413) 623-3167 View (413) 623-3167
Photo of Donna Jacobs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsfield, MA
Donna Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Not accepting new clients
I've learned in over thirty-five years in the field that anyone who wants change can benefit from a therapy that is geared toward increased self-awareness. Psychotherapy is an empowering experience that helps people improve relationships, reach higher income, quality of life, and educational goals. Understanding the world we live in, and who we are, is a key to open those doors to greater satisfaction, fewer frustrations, and a greater sense of possibilites. Therapy can, and should produce answers to questions about why things are not working out, and what actually does work
I've learned in over thirty-five years in the field that anyone who wants change can benefit from a therapy that is geared toward increased self-awareness. Psychotherapy is an empowering experience that helps people improve relationships, reach higher income, quality of life, and educational goals. Understanding the world we live in, and who we are, is a key to open those doors to greater satisfaction, fewer frustrations, and a greater sense of possibilites. Therapy can, and should produce answers to questions about why things are not working out, and what actually does work
(413) 315-5103 View (413) 315-5103

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lisa Loustaunau in Pittsfield, MA
Lisa Loustaunau
Not Verified Not Verified
Lenox, MA 01240  (Online Only)
"It is my intention to be of service in your journey, to support you in being all of who you are and live from your authenticity. To help you find the courage to know and express your real needs, to feel all of your feelings, and to let go of the defense patterns that limit your experience of aliveness and do not serve your higher purpose."
"It is my intention to be of service in your journey, to support you in being all of who you are and live from your authenticity. To help you find the courage to know and express your real needs, to feel all of your feelings, and to let go of the defense patterns that limit your experience of aliveness and do not serve your higher purpose."
(203) 763-4385 View (203) 763-4385
Photo of Sharon Alpert LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsfield, MA
Sharon Alpert LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Lenox, MA 01240  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It is easy to feel stuck in relationships, personal and professional pursuits and with ourselves. We become frustrated and discouraged when our efforts don't bring us the desired results. How we think, how we feel and what we do can reveal how we are holding ourselves back and what will help us move forward. I would like to help you learn more about the internal obstacles that get in the way of achieving your desired goals and discover how to move through them successfully.
It is easy to feel stuck in relationships, personal and professional pursuits and with ourselves. We become frustrated and discouraged when our efforts don't bring us the desired results. How we think, how we feel and what we do can reveal how we are holding ourselves back and what will help us move forward. I would like to help you learn more about the internal obstacles that get in the way of achieving your desired goals and discover how to move through them successfully.
(413) 200-3519 View (413) 200-3519
Photo of Wren Bernstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsfield, MA
Wren Bernstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Lee, MA 01238
I work extensively with mindfulness and guided meditation as a tools for greater self-knowledge and healing. Reactivity to the stressors of life is often based on limiting negative beliefs about self, others, and life itself. We unknowingly pick up such ideas in childhood and hold them as gospel truths, when actually they are lies that keep us stuck. The focus of therapy is to see beyond these false ideas, to loosen the energetic blocks that they cause, and to be free to live the truth of who you really are--beyond your anxiety, depression, compulsive thoughts, or habits. Change is much more possible than you may think!
I work extensively with mindfulness and guided meditation as a tools for greater self-knowledge and healing. Reactivity to the stressors of life is often based on limiting negative beliefs about self, others, and life itself. We unknowingly pick up such ideas in childhood and hold them as gospel truths, when actually they are lies that keep us stuck. The focus of therapy is to see beyond these false ideas, to loosen the energetic blocks that they cause, and to be free to live the truth of who you really are--beyond your anxiety, depression, compulsive thoughts, or habits. Change is much more possible than you may think!
(413) 241-5684 View (413) 241-5684

Online Therapists

Photo of Thomas R Plunkett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsfield, MA
Thomas R Plunkett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Williamstown, MA 01267
These include: Individual, family and group therapies; Mindfulness based stress reduction; hypnotherapy; bio/neurofeedback for pain, addiction, sleep problems, ADD and other issues; life coaching; medical issues.
Whether seeing individuals, couples or families, my primary focus is on helping clients find effective tools to move beyond obstacles which prevent them from experiencing satisfying levels of lovability, and capability - obstacles which arise in the realms of: their inner world of thoughts, mood and feelings; relationships: family, friends, partners, workmates and others; ilness, loss, pain management; work, school; and being in the world in general. I believe that everyone has the capacity and the ability to become skillful in navigating these various realms, and to learn how to identity new resources and tools when needed.
These include: Individual, family and group therapies; Mindfulness based stress reduction; hypnotherapy; bio/neurofeedback for pain, addiction, sleep problems, ADD and other issues; life coaching; medical issues.
Whether seeing individuals, couples or families, my primary focus is on helping clients find effective tools to move beyond obstacles which prevent them from experiencing satisfying levels of lovability, and capability - obstacles which arise in the realms of: their inner world of thoughts, mood and feelings; relationships: family, friends, partners, workmates and others; ilness, loss, pain management; work, school; and being in the world in general. I believe that everyone has the capacity and the ability to become skillful in navigating these various realms, and to learn how to identity new resources and tools when needed.
(413) 642-2365 View (413) 642-2365
Photo of Nancy Yen, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pittsfield, MA
Nancy Yen, MS, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
in Family Therapy, having served as a Board Director & a consultant for non-profit organization for adult Korean adoptees, & advanced clinical hypnotherapy and Somatic experiencing practitioner to treat trauma, & a Certified AAMFT Approved Supervisor.
Nancy is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist who has a strong conviction in human resiliency. Her philosophy is that personal challenges provide opportunities to reclaim Power, Identity, & Healing. Her work has included experience in an array of clinical settings & training with experience with Adoption, Couples, Trauma & complex Family issues.
in Family Therapy, having served as a Board Director & a consultant for non-profit organization for adult Korean adoptees, & advanced clinical hypnotherapy and Somatic experiencing practitioner to treat trauma, & a Certified AAMFT Approved Supervisor.
Nancy is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist who has a strong conviction in human resiliency. Her philosophy is that personal challenges provide opportunities to reclaim Power, Identity, & Healing. Her work has included experience in an array of clinical settings & training with experience with Adoption, Couples, Trauma & complex Family issues.
(508) 455-4046 View (508) 455-4046
Photo of Cynthia R Horan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsfield, MA
Cynthia R Horan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Boylston, MA 01583
I have over 20 years experience working with men and women in transition either due to divorce or remarriage; dealing with blended/step family situations. I have worked as a Guardian ad litem in the Probate Courts for over 20 years. I am trained in Divorce Mediation and have experience in helping divorcing couples create a workable and fair parenting plan. I also work with couples using the Imago technique I use a number of different modalities depending on the presenting problem. .. guided imagery, hypnotherapy, life coaching .My goal is to help you attain your goal.
I have over 20 years experience working with men and women in transition either due to divorce or remarriage; dealing with blended/step family situations. I have worked as a Guardian ad litem in the Probate Courts for over 20 years. I am trained in Divorce Mediation and have experience in helping divorcing couples create a workable and fair parenting plan. I also work with couples using the Imago technique I use a number of different modalities depending on the presenting problem. .. guided imagery, hypnotherapy, life coaching .My goal is to help you attain your goal.
(978) 631-1611 View (978) 631-1611
Photo of Interaction Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsfield, MA
Interaction Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Westford, MA 01886
We utilize an integrative and evidenced based approach which can include Play, Sandtray, EMDR, CBT, Hypnotherapy as well as Talk therapy.
Hello, my name is Shari Bennett, I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with over 35 years of experience as a therapist . In 1988 I opened Interactions Counseling and Intervention Center, a group private practice in Westford, MA. At Interactions we believe in treating the child and adolescent within the context of the family, school and larger community. For adults, we offer individual, family, and couples counseling, separately or in combination, so that the person can achieve the best results in the shortest amount of time. We collaborate with you to design a treatment plan that is unique to your specific needs.
We utilize an integrative and evidenced based approach which can include Play, Sandtray, EMDR, CBT, Hypnotherapy as well as Talk therapy.
Hello, my name is Shari Bennett, I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with over 35 years of experience as a therapist . In 1988 I opened Interactions Counseling and Intervention Center, a group private practice in Westford, MA. At Interactions we believe in treating the child and adolescent within the context of the family, school and larger community. For adults, we offer individual, family, and couples counseling, separately or in combination, so that the person can achieve the best results in the shortest amount of time. We collaborate with you to design a treatment plan that is unique to your specific needs.
(508) 433-3376 x1 View (508) 433-3376 x1
Photo of Corey Kopinto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsfield, MA
Corey Kopinto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060  (Online Only)
I have experience in assisting clients in the processing of both simple and complex trauma utilizing EMDR, Hypnotherapy, and Ego State Therapy.
I believe psychotherapy is first about listening and endeavoring to understand each individual and the experiences that have shaped their life. As the therapist, I bring and shape the skills that I have acquired to assist each client in the resolution of their individual challenges. I understand that successful psychotherapy is determined by trust established between the therapist and client within the therapeutic relationship. Throughout my life an career I have come to understand this that pain is an inevitable part of all of our lives, but suffering does not have to be; we can all find our way back to joy and fulfillment.
I have experience in assisting clients in the processing of both simple and complex trauma utilizing EMDR, Hypnotherapy, and Ego State Therapy.
I believe psychotherapy is first about listening and endeavoring to understand each individual and the experiences that have shaped their life. As the therapist, I bring and shape the skills that I have acquired to assist each client in the resolution of their individual challenges. I understand that successful psychotherapy is determined by trust established between the therapist and client within the therapeutic relationship. Throughout my life an career I have come to understand this that pain is an inevitable part of all of our lives, but suffering does not have to be; we can all find our way back to joy and fulfillment.
(413) 327-9215 View (413) 327-9215
Photo of Collaborative Health Psychology, Psychologist in Pittsfield, MA
Collaborative Health Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Concord, MA 01742  (Online Only)
I am a clinical health psychologist who specializes in treating people coping with anxiety, chronic pain, stress, medical issues, mood disorders, and difficulties adjusting to life changes. I believe that each person is unique, and therefore no one approach is right for everyone. I strive to integrate a variety of techniques and perspectives from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness based therapies, relaxation training, biofeedback, clinical hypnotherapy, and supportive therapy to create a treatment that is tailored to the individual I am working with. For more information please visit my website at collaborativehealthpsychology.com
I am a clinical health psychologist who specializes in treating people coping with anxiety, chronic pain, stress, medical issues, mood disorders, and difficulties adjusting to life changes. I believe that each person is unique, and therefore no one approach is right for everyone. I strive to integrate a variety of techniques and perspectives from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness based therapies, relaxation training, biofeedback, clinical hypnotherapy, and supportive therapy to create a treatment that is tailored to the individual I am working with. For more information please visit my website at collaborativehealthpsychology.com
(617) 444-9055 View (617) 444-9055
Photo of Leslie Gould-Barkman Ladybug Body-Mind Healing in Pittsfield, MA
Leslie Gould-Barkman Ladybug Body-Mind Healing
MSW, MCLC, LMT, CHT
Verified Verified
West Hatfield, MA 01088
Somatic counseling to address root causes and the past, life coaching techniques to stay focused on the future, hypnotherapy to update deep seeded beliefs at the source, and energy work to help move what's stuck.
My ideal client is someone who thinks they're not enough or who holds back or hides their best selves. I enjoy working with over-thinkers, worriers, and perfectionists as well as clients who have many reasons to be happy but aren't. I am particularly adept at helping people who feel "different" learn to find their truth and finally own and celebrate their uniqueness. By removing the layers that often bury our authentic selves a sense of ease can replace the constant churn of worrying, and confidence can replace self doubt simply by updating old beliefs that no longer serve us so we can finally relax into who we really are.
Somatic counseling to address root causes and the past, life coaching techniques to stay focused on the future, hypnotherapy to update deep seeded beliefs at the source, and energy work to help move what's stuck.
My ideal client is someone who thinks they're not enough or who holds back or hides their best selves. I enjoy working with over-thinkers, worriers, and perfectionists as well as clients who have many reasons to be happy but aren't. I am particularly adept at helping people who feel "different" learn to find their truth and finally own and celebrate their uniqueness. By removing the layers that often bury our authentic selves a sense of ease can replace the constant churn of worrying, and confidence can replace self doubt simply by updating old beliefs that no longer serve us so we can finally relax into who we really are.
(413) 923-6351 View (413) 923-6351
Photo of Kenneth MacIntosh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsfield, MA
Kenneth MacIntosh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lowell, MA 01852  (Online Only)
Kenny offers traditional talk therapy, EMDR, hypnotherapy, and other modalities to customize a structured or integrative approach that fits each client's unique needs and preferences.
Kenny is a proud US Navy Veteran (Corpsman/Medic) and therapist specializing in PTSD, anxiety, self-sabotaging behaviors, and performance improvement. Are you genuinely curious about unhelpful patterns that seem to keep showing up in your life and relationships? Do you ask why you can't let things go, have trust issues, or the inability to relax? You keep putting other's needs first, have trouble setting boundaries or communicating your needs? Unable to see your purpose? Real change can only occur when you are genuinely curious about uncovering recurring patterns and are motivated to try out new strategies to break them.
Kenny offers traditional talk therapy, EMDR, hypnotherapy, and other modalities to customize a structured or integrative approach that fits each client's unique needs and preferences.
Kenny is a proud US Navy Veteran (Corpsman/Medic) and therapist specializing in PTSD, anxiety, self-sabotaging behaviors, and performance improvement. Are you genuinely curious about unhelpful patterns that seem to keep showing up in your life and relationships? Do you ask why you can't let things go, have trust issues, or the inability to relax? You keep putting other's needs first, have trouble setting boundaries or communicating your needs? Unable to see your purpose? Real change can only occur when you are genuinely curious about uncovering recurring patterns and are motivated to try out new strategies to break them.
(351) 444-9447 View (351) 444-9447
Photo of Rollins Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsfield, MA
Rollins Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Rollins Counseling Center offers individual and family counseling to adolescents and adults. We offer Telehealth! In-person visits are available in our Westford location and will be available in our Marlborough location in December, 2021. We have a team of licensed clinicians that utilize evidenced based therapies to effectively treat a wide range of issues that affect one’s quality of life. Treatment modalities include psychodynamic therapy, CBT, family systems, mind-body approaches, hypnotherapy and EMDR.
Rollins Counseling Center offers individual and family counseling to adolescents and adults. We offer Telehealth! In-person visits are available in our Westford location and will be available in our Marlborough location in December, 2021. We have a team of licensed clinicians that utilize evidenced based therapies to effectively treat a wide range of issues that affect one’s quality of life. Treatment modalities include psychodynamic therapy, CBT, family systems, mind-body approaches, hypnotherapy and EMDR.
(978) 999-2165 View (978) 999-2165
Photo of Deborah L Singer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsfield, MA
Deborah L Singer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CASAC, CEAP, SAP, CGT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lee, MA 01238
I am certified in hypnotherapy, E.
Are you looking for a way to deepen your connection and strengthen your relationship with your partner? Look no further. As a certified Gottman therapist, I use evidence-based techniques to help couples improve their communication, increase intimacy, and resolve conflicts in a healthy and effective manner. With over 40 years of research and success, the Gottman Method has been proven to significantly improve relationships and increase relationship satisfaction. Let's work together to build a happier and healthier future for your relationship. I am licensed in CT, MA, ME, NH, NJ, NY, TX and VT.
I am certified in hypnotherapy, E.
Are you looking for a way to deepen your connection and strengthen your relationship with your partner? Look no further. As a certified Gottman therapist, I use evidence-based techniques to help couples improve their communication, increase intimacy, and resolve conflicts in a healthy and effective manner. With over 40 years of research and success, the Gottman Method has been proven to significantly improve relationships and increase relationship satisfaction. Let's work together to build a happier and healthier future for your relationship. I am licensed in CT, MA, ME, NH, NJ, NY, TX and VT.
(516) 693-2027 View (516) 693-2027
HypnoTherapy

How does hypnotherapy work?

Hypnotherapy works by using guided hypnosis to help you reach a state of focus and concentration through mental imagery and soothing verbal repetition. The state is somewhat like being absorbed in a book, a movie, or your own thoughts. You are not under a therapist’s “control,” but they can help you relax and turn your attention inward to discover the resources to achieve behavior change or better manage psychological concerns. Therapy sessions may involve guiding you through recognizing a problem, releasing problematic thoughts about it, and considering and accepting more productive alternatives before returning to normal awareness. Hypnotherapy is typically used by a therapist along with traditional forms of talk therapy. Eventually, your therapist can help you learn hypnotherapy techniques yourself so you can establish a stronger sense of control on your own in stressful or challenging moments.

Is hypnotherapy the same as hypnosis?

Hypnotherapy, which is sometimes called hypnotic suggestion, is a therapeutic technique in which a therapist uses hypnosis to help patients. It is not the kind of hypnosis portrayed in stage shows, or in movies or on television. You will not be unconscious or asleep during hypnotherapy, you will not lose control of yourself, your thoughts, or your free will, and you will be able to fully recall your experience. And while you will hear your therapist’s suggestions, it is always up to you to decide whether to act on them. Hypnosis by a trained mental-health professional is not a form of mind control, which is impossible to achieve anyway.

Can everyone be hypnotized?

The most common challenge of hypnotherapy is that as many as one in four people cannot be hypnotized. Brain imaging has confirmed differences in patterns of brain connectivity between those who respond to hypnotism and those who do not. Other people who could potentially be hypnotized may not respond to the technique because of their skepticism or resistance to entering a hypnotic state. If a therapist’s “post-hypnotic suggestion” is effective, it’s because they are suggesting something you want to achieve.

Does hypnotherapy work?

Through hypnotherapy, you can achieve changes that are real and sustainable. Like other talk therapy techniques, when hypnotherapy succeeds, it’s a case of mind over matter. Effective hypnotherapy involves self-healing because you access resources you need to change inside of yourself and learn how to tap into them whenever you need. Hypnotherapy has been shown to be an effective therapy for anxiety, phobias, stress, panic attacks, post-traumatic stress disorder, sexual dysfunction, and undesirable behaviors like smoking. It can be used to help improve sleep or to address relationship challenges, and to aid with pain management, digestive disorders, skin conditions, and the gastrointestinal side effects of pregnancy or chemotherapy.